Why Study the Old Testament?
By Michael Gilbert
February 4, 2007
“For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope”
(Romans 15:4)
The “things…written aforetime” is a direct reference to the Old Testament Scriptures. According to Paul, those Old Testament Jewish writings produce patience, comfort and hope for Christians. If that is true (and it is), then why are so many unfamiliar with its teachings? Could it be because our preachers haven’t taught us the proper use and value of the Old Testament? Could it be because we haven’t listened to our preachers as they attempted to teach us the value of the Old Testament? Whatever the case, allow me to give seven reasons why a Christian needs to know about the old Jewish Scriptures.
1. The Old Testament is inspired of God (2 Tim. 2:16-17)
2. The Old Testament shows that God and His principles (i.e., love, mercy, patience, etc. - Malachi 3:6) never change.
3. To better understand the New Test-ament (Gal. 3:24, books of Rom., Heb.)
4. To make us “wise unto salvation” (2 Tim. 3:15)
5. To better understand our Savior, through prophecies about Him (Is. 53)
6. To fully understand the love of God (Micah 7:18, etc.)
7. To understand what great faith can accomplish (Rom. 4:3; Heb. 11)
